WIDNES Vikings have been given a massive boost with news that Shane Millard, Julian F O'Neill and Paul Atcheson have signed new deals with the club, writes Ian Cheveau.

Millard, 27, has been linked with a lucrative move back to Australia with his former club South Sydney.

The Vikings most consistent performer of Super League VIII Millard has been widely tipped to win the coveted Man of Steel award for his outstanding efforts this year.

The player, who considered retirement after being ditched by St George Illawarra last year, is now contracted until the end of 2006 after signing a two year extension.

"Shane has been terrific for us this year and I'm delighted to announce that he will be with us for some time to come," said Kelly.

Kiwi Julian O'Neill has also pledged his future to the club by signing for a further two years, reward for a superb season for the big front row.

Pleased

The former Super League Grand Final winner, with St Helens, opted to stay at the club despite an attractive offer from another Super League club, believed to be from local rivals Warrington Wolves, and Kelly is particularly pleased that he O'Neill is staying.

"Julian is having a fantastic season for us," said Kelly.

"He was out of contract at the end of the year and I'm very pleased that we have secured him for next two years."

Utility player Paul Atcheson has also extended his deal for a further year after the 30 year old once again proved his value to the squad.

Meanwhile, this coming Sunday's clash against Huddersfield is one which the Vikings must win, according to Kelly.

The Vikings slipped up last time at the McAlpine Stadium only taking one point when it really should have been two and Kelly knows that this time there must not be any mistakes.

He said: "We must win the remaining three games to stand any chance of making the play offs. We are upbeat that we can do that but it looks like it will go down right to the wire when we play Halifax and that will be the deciding factor."

Jules O'Neill underwent surgery to his damaged knee on Wednesday. The club is waiting to hear if it has been a success.